[Detection, significance and control of paramyxoviruses in birds]

Infection, disease and mortality due to various paramyxoviruses currently occur fairly frequently in both domestic fowl and in captive and free-living birds. These viruses are therefore of economic and ecologic significance, and may also cause zoonoses. The current legal status of the detection and control of paramyxovirus-associated diseases or epidemics are described. Prophylactic vaccination against Newcastle disease using live and inactivated vaccines, as required by the fowl disease regulations, remains of great importance in maintaining health and productivity of the fowl. Correct immunisation also includes checking the effectiveness using serological methods.